St. David’s South Austin Medical Center was recently verified as a Level II Trauma Center by the American College of Surgeons (ACS), recognizing the trauma center’s dedication to providing exceptional care to the most critically injured patients. Level II is the highest level a hospital can achieve without being affiliated with an academic research facility or residency program.

Since beginning the verification process two years ago, the hospital has treated more than 6,000 critically injured trauma patients. During the verification process, St. David’s South Austin Medical Center also opened a new Shock Trauma Unit, a higher-level Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and 10 new beds as part of a “step-down” unit for patients recently discharged from the ICU but still in need of a higher level of care.

“This verification reflects our commitment to providing the highest level of care, and it underscores the dedication of our physicians, nurses and staff,” Todd Steward, chief executive officer of St. David’s South Austin Medical Center, said. “We identified a strong need for Level II trauma services in South Austin years ago due to our proximity to three major thoroughfares, and we are pleased to be able to fill this critical need in our community.”

St. David’s South Austin Medical Center is St. David’s HealthCare’s second Level II Trauma Center. St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center has been providing Level II Trauma services in Williamson County since 2012. Having multiple facilities across Central Texas with advanced trauma capabilities ensures increased access to care for the most critically ill patients, whose outcomes are often primarily determined by how quickly they can receive treatment.